Keep greenhouse plants cool

GREENHOUSES can get incredibly hot under the full glare of summer sun. And when the mercury in your thermometer soars too high, plants become stressed and will eventually die from exhaustion. Tomatoes even stop ripening when the air begins to cook above 37C.

It’s good to vent

On hot days, opening a ridge ventilator is often not enough to prevent a stagnant atmosphere.

To ensure a complete air change, install side vents to allow a through draught and leave the door open.

Sun burned leaves

Bright sun can scorch vulnerable leaves. As a temporary measure, cover up your seedlings and young plants with newspaper to protect them from burning during the hottest part of the day.

Blinding heat

External blinds are a solution. They will not only shade plants but also deflect heat before it can enter the greenhouse. But many people would consider them expensive.

Shade netting is cheaper and WHEN winding or unwinding your hosepipe, keep the water running slowly. This stops it kinking and tying itself in knots. similarly breaks up the direct rays of the sun, providing a dappled shade which mimics life under the leaves of a tree.

Shading paint such as Bayer Cool Glass is another cheap answer and is painted on to reflect some light.

Even the heaviest rain storms will not wash it off. And when summer turns to autumn you can get rid of it by wiping or brushing.